Scientists: the moon is already in the Anthropocene

Our species appeared in Africa about 300,000 years ago, and 16,000 years ago had already inhabited all continents except Antarctica. Since then, humans have “reordered” life on Earth and changed the atmosphere and hydrosphere. Now, according to researchers, we are experiencing the next major expansion of the areal – the settlement of the solar system. And instead of stone tools and fire pits, we’re leaving traces of landers, scientific instruments and rovers.

According to geologist Justin Holcomb, the Anthropocene on the Moon has already begun, but the extent of humanity’s impact on the satellite has yet to be objectively assessed.